TYLER, Texas – Despite earning a lead midway through the game, Eastern New Mexico dropped the series opener to No. 17 UT Tyler, 9-4.

"We could not get the big hit to break it open," said head coach Riley Price when reflecting on the game. "We had an opportunity to run away with the game."

The Patriots had three pitchers throw against the Greyhounds. Caden Copeland got the start before allowing three runs over 3.2 innings of work. ENMU also saw Coleson Abel for 1.2 innings. Coming into the game Abel had less than a 1.00 ERA, but Eastern stayed patient with him on the mound while earning two hits and two walks while adding a run to the scoreboard.

UT Tyler saw Jacob Morgan close out the game with his first win of the season. He quieted the ENMU offensive attack going 3.2 innings and allowing just four hits.

Eastern put up double digit hits in the loss to nationally ranked UTT. Salomon Lluveres continued his strong play at the plate with a team-best three hits. Also tacking on multiple hits was Eiji Sawamura who had a pair of singles. In the eight-hole, Gaston Galvan was consistent with two walks and an RBI-single.

Micah Early got the start on the mound for ENMU. He provided great control and carried the staff through 4.2 innings allowing one run on five walks and four hits. He struck out two batters. Demitrius DiMatteo came in to relieve Early, but he had a tough time getting outs. He went just one inning and UTT saw four runners cross home with him on the mound.

Once the Patriots took control offensively, they did not look back. Eastern New Mexico and the fellow LSC foe will play a doubleheader beginning at 2 p.m. MT.